Liechtenstein ends male-only royal succession after 400 years

Liechtenstein has changed its royal succession law to allow the firstborn child, regardless of sex, to inherit the throne. Hereditary Prince Alois announced the change during the national day celebrations on August 15. The rule was approved by a two-thirds majority of voting family members.

The amendment replaces male primogeniture with absolute primogeniture. The current ruler, Prince Hans-Adam II, remains head of state. The change applies only to future descendants of Hereditary Prince Alois and his wife Princess Sophie. It does not affect current members of the royal family.

Several European countries including Sweden, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands, and Britain have adopted similar rules. In Japan, polls show a majority of citizens support allowing a female empress, but the law has not been changed. Emperor Naruhito's only child, Princess Aiko, remains ineligible to succeed him.